April 4, 2005

Tough economics, drought, and increasing clashes with
other public-lands users are leading some ranchers to consider
taking the "golden saddle" – a check from conservationists in
exchange for their grazing permits. Also in this
issue: Two researchers say that the "Sustainable Slopes"
program, touted by the National Ski Areas Association as a sign of
the industry’s environmental responsibility, is little more
than "greenwashing."

Feature

Tough economics, drought, and increasing clashes with
other public-lands users are leading some ranchers to consider
taking the "golden saddle" – a check from conservationists in
exchange for their grazing permits